Celebrating Excellence in Nursing: International Nurses Day in Dubai
Dubai recently celebrated International Nurses Day through a heartfelt ceremony, shining a spotlight on its exemplary nursing team. With over 4,400 dedicated nurses serving across various facilities, this event was more than just a formality; it was a genuine acknowledgment of the vital role nurses play in the healthcare system.
A Grand Gathering
Hosted at the luxurious Grand Hyatt Dubai, the celebration brought together more than 1,500 nurses from Dubai Health’s hospitals and health centers. The atmosphere was invigorating, filled with camaraderie and shared pride among nursing professionals. The scale of the event illustrates the importance placed on nursing within the healthcare framework of Dubai.
Honoring Clinical Excellence
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious DAISY Award, which recognizes extraordinary nursing practice and compassionate care. Twelve deserving recipients were honored, showcasing variations of clinical excellence that elevate the standard of care across the board. These awards serve not only as accolades for the recipients but also as inspiration for all nurses to strive for such high standards in their day-to-day practice.
Notable Attendees and Contributions
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, the Director-General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. Alongside him were high-ranking officials from Dubai Health, such as Dr. Amer Sharif, the CEO, and Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, the Chief Academic Officer and Provost of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU). Their participation underscores the collaborative efforts of various sectors within Dubai to enhance healthcare services.
Recognition for GDRFA Dubai
The ceremony also featured a special acknowledgment for GDRFA Dubai, which recently received the Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart Government Flag. Major General Talal Al Shanqeeti, Assistant Director-General for the Airports Sector, represented GDRFA during this recognition. This accolade emphasizes the importance of a people-first approach and aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision for a well-integrated healthcare framework.
Voices of Leadership
Dr. Amer Sharif, the CEO of Dubai Health, passionately expressed gratitude toward the nursing community, highlighting their contributions to patient care. “We celebrate the DAISY Award winners who exemplify both clinical and human excellence. At Dubai Health, we remain committed to supporting and empowering our nursing teams, who play an essential role in our ‘Patient First’ approach,” he stated.
Additionally, Dr. Sharif applauded the GDRFA team, emphasizing the importance of collaborative work in enhancing the quality of life for all Dubai residents. His comments reflect the unity and commitment to healthcare that define Dubai’s approach to public service.
Investing in Future Talent
In a progressive move, Dr. Sharif also welcomed 16 graduate nurses transitioning into clinical practice at Dubai Health. This transition not only reinforces the importance of nurturing talent but also represents the ongoing investment in building a robust healthcare workforce. The commitment to education and professional growth shows promise for the future of nursing in the region.
A Vision for Nursing Education
The ceremony also celebrated the recent naming of the Hind Bint Maktoum College of Nursing and Midwifery at MBRU, a decision endorsed by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This recognition serves as motivation for strengthening the national capacity and elevation of nursing as a profession, laying the groundwork for future generations of healthcare providers.
A Growing Team
Dr. Tarek Fathy, Chief Clinical Officer at Dubai Health, noted the significant growth in the nursing team, now exceeding 4,400 professionals. The diversity and increasing strength of the nursing staff highlight Dubai’s commitment to employing a workforce that can cater to the healthcare needs of its diverse population.
Through this grand celebration, Dubai illustrated its profound respect and appreciation for nurses, who are the backbone of the healthcare system. The collective efforts and recognitions on International Nurses Day serve as a reminder of the essential role nurses play in ensuring the well-being of the community.
